The Midland Empire Resources for Independent Living is planning to offer up lawn space for the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse as a fundraiser.

According to a news release, MERIL is offering its location and facilities to those who want to watch the eclipse on Aug. 21, or camp out the night before. MERIL CEO Rob Honan said all proceeds will directly help people with disabilities in northwest Missouri.

“We have a really great location with plenty of open space and accessible indoor bathrooms” Honan said. “Many people are expected to come to St. Joe for the eclipse, and we want to use that opportunity to raise money for the people we serve.”

According to the St. Joseph Convention and Visitors Bureau website, St. Joseph is a prime location for viewing the eclipse, and tens of thousands of people are expected to visit the city to witness it.  In St. Joseph complete totality is expected to last 2 minutes and 38.6 seconds, only 1.4 seconds short of the maximum time possible.

Reservations at MERIL require a minimum donation of $20 per viewing spot or $40 for overnight camping. More information about the event is available at www.meril.org and 816-279-8558.